How can my steering wheel shake? (Low and high speed)

Do you feel the steering wheel move when driving?

It is a common problem that many people ignore.

Neglecting this issue is not a good idea as it could cause damage to other parts of the suspension, which can lead to even more expensive repairs.

Unbalanced front tires and rims are the most likely causes of shaking steering wheels. Bad brake rotors can cause shaking, particularly when the wheel is braking. Bad wheel alignment and other parts of the suspension could also be responsible.

Below is a list that explains the five most frequent causes of steering wheel shaking.

There are 6 causes of steering wheel shakes

1. Bad Front Tires

Unbalanced or damaged tires are the main cause of shaken steering wheels while driving.

After installing a tire on the rim – you balance it with weights to make sure that it is perfectly balanced.

The front tires could lose the weight and the weight could be lost.

You can also cause it by a damaged tire. Inspect the front tires for any damages and if you can’t find any – let a tire shop balance them for you.

Low speeds can be caused by this, as well as high speeds. It is most likely to cause damage to your tires if it moves at low speeds.

2. Hub for Rims or Wheels

A damaged rim is another common cause if there has been an accident, or you drive on bumpy roads a lot.

You can repair minor damage to the rim but may need to replace it if there is severe damage.

3. Brake Rotors

There is a good chance your brake rotors have become worn and rusty.

This can easily be checked by slightly press the brake pedal at higher speeds – if the problem gets worse, it is a big chance that the brake rotors are your problem.

RELATED: 6 Causes of a Steering Wheel That’s Hard to Turn

4. A wheel alignment

An incorrect wheel alignment could cause your tires to go in opposite directions, which can lead to a steering wheel that is shaking and bumpy.

You may also experience this if your suspension parts are worn.

5. Buffers to control arm movements

The control arm bushings hold the tires in a fixed position to make sure they won’t start wobble at higher speeds.

These can occur especially when the brakes are being applied, if your bushings have become damaged.

6. Tie rod ends

The outer and inner tie rods are responsible for holding the wheel in its place at higher speeds. These rods can wear out quickly and no longer hold the tires in a certain position.

This isn't very common but it could happen if you tried all other options.

RELATED: Car Shakes When Stopped Or at Idle – Common Causes

There are 2 causes for steering wheel shakes during braking

The steering wheel can shake while you brake your car. This is another problem. These are two common causes.

1. Rotors Front Brake Rotors

Most common reason for a shaken steering wheel during braking are, without doubts, the front brake drums.

It is more likely to happen if your brake rotors have been overheated or are very rusty from standing for long periods.

Unbalanced brake rotors happen to many new cars and are a rising problem on cars like BMW & Audi.

2. Buffers to control arm movements

If your front brakes rotors have been replaced and still the problem continues, you may need to replace the bushings on the control arms or the tie rod.